Download

//ˈdaʊnˌləʊd// noun, verb

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A file transfer to a given computer or device from a remote one through a network connection.

    "The download took longer than I expected."

  2. 2
    A file that has been or is intended to be transferred in this way.

    "I got the download but it wouldn't work on my computer."

Verb
  1. 1
    To transfer data to a given computer from a remote one via a network. transitive

    "You can download a trial version of the program for thirty days to determine whether you want to purchase the full version."

  2. 2
    transfer a file or program from a central computer to a smaller computer or to a computer at a remote location wordnet
  3. 3
    Synonym of upload: to send data from a given computer to a remote one. nonstandard, transitive
  4. 4
    Synonym of copy: to transfer data to or from removable media. nonstandard, transitive

    "When I was your age, there were no flash drives. I needed to download photos to a CD-ROM."

  5. 5
    Synonym of install: to load software forced. nonstandard, transitive
Show 2 more definitions
  1. 6
    To load a gun (especially a muzzle-loader) with less propellant than its designed load. transitive
  2. 7
    To transfer jurisdiction and responsibility of a government asset or service to a lower level of government. Canada, transitive

    "In 1997, The Harris government also downloaded a number of social services to municipal governments, including affordable housing."

Etymology

Etymology 1

From down- + load. Verbal form first appears c. 1962 in the Wichita Falls (Texas) Times. Nominal form first appears c. 1977 in Scientific American.

Etymology 2

From down- + load. Verbal form first appears c. 1962 in the Wichita Falls (Texas) Times. Nominal form first appears c. 1977 in Scientific American.

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